Asking for a salary increase is difficult and almost always uncomfortable. However, for employees who have been working for a company for a long time, it has become a necessity. This is especially true given the rising prices of groceries and rent. According to a report published by CNBC, about 47.7% of American employees’ goal this year is to receive a raise or a promotion. So, if you’re looking to ask for a salary increase yourself, you’re not alone.

Considering asking for a pay raise? You might be wondering how to start the conversation with your boss. In this article, I’ve put together 181 polite email subject lines that you can use to make a strong case for a pay raise. Whether you’re looking for a subtle approach or more direct request, I’ve got suggestions you can use. 

Email Subject Lines Asking for a Pay Raise

• Request for a Salary Review
• Let’s Grow Together
• Proposal for a Salary Increase
• Seeking a Pay Raise
• Industry Benchmarks for Compensation
• Congratulations on Another Record Year
• Compensation Adjustment Request
• Revisiting My Salary Package
• Request for a Salary Adjustment
• I’m Looking Forward to the New Challenges This Year
• Requesting a Salary Increase
• An Opportunity to Evaluation Compensation
• Supporting Your Employees
• Annual Role Evaluation
• Requesting Feedback about Job Performance
• A Discussion on Salary
• Show Me the Money
• Reconsidering My Salary
• Seeking a Compensation Review
• Reviewing My Pay Package
• Negotiating a Salary Increase
• Asking for a Pay Raise
• Inquiring about a Salary Increase
• Requesting a Compensation Review
• Salary Adjustment Request
• Salary Revision Proposal
• Salary Negotiation Request
• My Salary Needs Reconsideration
• Seeking a Better Compensation Package
• Request for a Performance-Based Raise
• A Salary Discussion Proposal
• Time for a Salary Increase
• A Request for a Fair Salary
• Requesting a Fair Compensation Package
• Seeking a Merit-Based Salary Increase
• Proposal for a Salary Raise
• Requesting a Market-Value Salary
• An Honest Discussion About My Salary
• A Salary Increase Request
• Seeking a Competitive Salary Package
• Requesting a Salary Increase
• Seeking a Fair Salary
• Salary Adjustment Request
• Time for a Pay Raise
• Recognition for My Work
• Compensation Discussion
• Salary Negotiation Request
• Requesting a Meeting Regarding Salary
• Looking for Fair Compensation
• Increasing My Salary
• Compensation Review Request
• Fair Pay for My Performance
• Time to Review My Salary
• Requesting a Raise to Match My Value

Email Subject Lines Asking for a Salary Increase

A standard raise is between 3% – 5% of annual compensation.

• A Request for Fair Compensation
• My Contribution Warrants a Raise
• Proposal for a Performance-Based Salary Increase
• Inquiring about a Competitive Salary
• Merit Discussion for [Insert Employee Name]
• A Discussion on a Salary Adjustment
• Seeking a Raise that Reflects My Value
• A Request for an Upgraded Compensation Package
• Negotiating a Salary Upgrade
• Time for a Salary Adjustment
• An Honest Discussion About My Salary Package
• Request for a Market-Value Salary Review
• My Hard Work Deserves a Salary Increase
• Career Pathing for [Insert Employee Name]
• Seeking a Justifiable Salary Raise
• A Request for a Salary Evaluation
• A Fair and Reasonable Salary Proposal
• Seeking a Merit-Based Salary Upgrade
• A Salary Increase Request Based on Market Trends
• A Raise that Matches My Achievements
• Proposal for a Competitive Salary Review
• Requesting a Salary Increase that Reflects My Potential
• A Request for a Performance Review and Salary Adjustment
• A Raise Proposal Based on My Experience
• Seeking a Salary Increase to Meet Living Costs
• A Request for a Salary Upgrade to Retain Talent
• Proposal for a Salary Increase that Aligns with Company Goals
• A Fair and Equitable Salary Adjustment Request

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• Requesting a Salary Raise to Encourage Motivation
• Seeking a Salary Increase to Address Industry Standards
• A Justified Salary Proposal Based on Increased Responsibilities
• A Request for a Salary Upgrade that Reflects My Market Value
• A Proposal for a Salary Increase to Match My Professional Growth
• Elevating My Compensation
• Request for Improved Salary
• Seeking a Raise in Pay
• Compensation Review and Increase Request
• Salary Boost Inquiry
• Requesting a Pay Upgrade
• Increased Responsibilities Warrant a Pay Raise
• Enhancing My Compensation Package
• Acknowledging My Contributions with a Salary Increase
• Need for a Competitive Salary
• Seeking an Adjusted Salary
• Time to Reconsider My Pay
• Requesting a Salary Raise to Reflect My Value
• Appreciation for a Higher Salary

Email Subject Lines Asking for a Small Salary Increase

Writing a compensation email to send to HR.

• Request for a Modest Salary Increase
• A Small Raise Proposal
• Cost of Living Increase?
• Seeking a Slight Salary Adjustment
• Seeking Relief from Inflation
• A Request for a Mild Salary Increase
• Proposal for a Modest Compensation Review
• Inquiring about a Small Pay Raise
• Would You Be Open to a 3% Salary Increase?
• Seeking a Minor Salary Adjustment
• Requesting a Small Salary Raise
• A Discussion on a Modest Salary Increase
• A Request for a Nominal Salary Adjustment
• Seeking a Token Salary Increase
• Proposal for a Small Compensation Upgrade
• Inquiring about a Marginal Pay Raise
• Requesting a Slight Salary Upgrade
• A Discussion on a Minor Salary Adjustment
• Seeking a Petite Salary Increase
• A Request for a Tiny Salary Raise
• Proposal for a Small Pay Raise
• Inquiring about a Small Salary Review
• Requesting a Modest Compensation Raise
• A Discussion on a Small Salary Adjustment
• Seeking a Small Pay Adjustment
• A Request for a Meager Salary Increase
• Proposal for a Small Increment
• Inquiring about a Tiny Salary Raise
• Requesting a Modest Salary Boost
• A Discussion on a Slight Salary Increase
• Seeking a Small Wage Increase
• A Request for a Tiny Compensation Review
• Proposal for a Minor Salary Raise
• Inquiring about a Small Wage Adjustment
• Requesting a Modest Salary Increase
• Seeking a Reasonable Pay Raise
• Small Salary Adjustment Request
• Incremental Salary Review Request
• Seeking a Slight Salary Upgrade
• Requesting a Small Increase in Pay
• Incremental Pay Raise Inquiry
• Seeking a Small Salary Adjustment
• Small Salary Improvement Request
• Modest Compensation Increase Inquiry
• Need for a Small Salary Boost
• Requesting a Salary Increment to Reflect My Value
• Slight Salary Review and Increase Request
• Seeking a Small Raise in Compensation

Disappointed with Salary Email Subject Lines

Did you get a raise, but aren’t satisfied with the amount? Sometimes companies will offer low-ball raises in an effort to placate unhappy workers for another year or two. Here are some ways to combat this tactic.

• Expressing Disappointment in Salary
• Evaluating My Salary Increase
• Feeling Undervalued with Current Compensation
• A Disappointed Outlook on My Salary
• Addressing My Concerns with Salary
• A Disheartened View of My Pay Package
• My Disappointment with Salary Package
• A Salary that Doesn’t Meet Expectations
• My Displeasure with Current Compensation
• Expressing Discontent with My Salary
• Feeling Dissatisfied with Salary
• Disappointed in Current Salary Package
• A Salary that Falls Short of Expectations
• My Frustration with My Current Pay
• A Salary that Fails to Recognize My Contributions
• My Disillusionment with My Salary
• Feeling Let Down by My Compensation
• A Salary that Leaves Me Disappointed
• Expressing My Unhappiness with Current Pay
• Feeling Devalued with My Salary Package
• My Salary Falls Below Industry Standards
• Disappointed with the Lack of Salary Progression
• My Displeasure with Current Salary Review
• A Salary that Does Not Reflect My Hard Work
• My Disappointment with the Salary Increment
• Expressing Disappointment with Salary Growth
• Feeling Disillusioned with Salary Benefits
• A Salary that Does Not Keep Up with Cost of Living
• My Disappointment with the Salary Negotiation
• A Salary that Fails to Meet My Expectations
• Expressing Disappointment with Salary Negotiations
• My Dissatisfaction with Current Salary Progression
• Unhappy with My Current Salary
• Request for Salary Reconsideration
• Dissatisfied with My Compensation
• Seeking Fair Compensation for My Work
• Need for a Salary Increase
• Salary Disappointment Inquiry
• Seeking Adequate Pay for My Contributions
• Unsatisfied with My Current Pay
• Requesting a Salary Improvement
• Frustrated with My Salary Level
• Need for a Competitive Salary Package
• Seeking Better Pay for My Skills
• Discontent with My Current Compensation
• Need for a Salary Adjustment to Reflect My Value

Email Samples to Boss Requesting a Pay Raise

Drafting a professional email.

Dear [Manager’s name],

I am writing to request a 4% raise. I have been with the company for [number] years and have consistently exceeded expectations in my role as head chef.

In the past year, I have [list of accomplishments]. I have also taken on additional responsibilities, such as [list of additional responsibilities]. I am confident that I am worth more than my current salary.

I love this restaurant and will continue to be a top performer in this company regardless of the outcome. This raise will keep me motivated and feel valued in my role. Let me know if you have time to discuss this topic over the next 1 – 2 weeks.

Sincerely, [Your name]

• Dear (Boss’s Name), I hope this email finds you well. I have been working hard and contributing significantly to the company’s success. Over the past year, I have taken on additional responsibilities, achieved exceptional results, and contributed to the success of several critical projects. I would like to request a pay raise to reflect my dedication and hard work. Thank you for your consideration.
• Dear (Boss’s Name), I am writing to request a salary increase. I have been a loyal and hardworking employee. Despite my efforts, my salary has remained stagnant, and I believe it’s time for a change. I believe that my contributions to the company warrant a raise. I appreciate your time and consideration.

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• Dear (Boss’s Name), I am writing to request a salary adjustment. I have taken on additional responsibilities like (insert examples) and duties since my last salary review. Thank you for your time and I look forward to our future discussions of this topic. 
• Dear (Boss’s Name), I would like to request a pay raise. I have been with the company for (number of years), and I have consistently exceeded expectations in my performance. I believe a raise would reflect my hard work and dedication. Thank you for your consideration.
• Dear (Boss’s Name), I am writing to request a salary review. I have been with the company for (number of years), and I believe that my contributions warrant a salary increase. Thank you for your time.

Email Samples to HR Requesting Pay Raise

Let’s talk about your salary expectations.

• Dear HR Team, I am writing to request a salary increase as I feel my current salary does not reflect the value I bring to the organization. I am confident that I deserve a pay raise to recognize my hard work and dedication to the company. I would appreciate it if you could review my salary and consider an increase that would align with my contributions and market standards. Thank you for your time and consideration.
• Dear HR Team, I am writing to express my concern regarding my current salary level. I have consistently exceeded expectations, taken on new responsibilities, and contributed to the growth of the company. However, my salary has remained the same for a while now. I am hoping that you can conduct a review of my salary and adjust it accordingly to recognize my contributions to the company. Thank you for your attention to this matter.
• Dear HR Team, I am writing to request a review of my salary. I am concerned that my current salary does not reflect my qualifications, experience, and contributions to the company. I have taken on more significant responsibilities, provided excellent performance, and played a critical role in several successful projects. However, I feel that I am underpaid compared to industry standards and my colleagues with similar skills and experience. I am hoping to discuss a salary increase to align my pay with my experience and contributions to the organization. I look forward to discussing this with you further. 
• Dear HR Team, I am writing to request a pay raise as I believe my current salary does not reflect the value I bring to the company. Over the past year, I have contributed to several critical projects, exceeded my goals, and demonstrated my ability to perform at a high level consistently. I have also taken on additional responsibilities beyond my job description, which has contributed to the company’s success. I am hoping that we can review my salary and come to a fair and appropriate compensation package that reflects my contributions and market standards. Thank you for your attention to this matter.

Tips on Asking for a Raise by Email

Writing a request for better compensation.

Asking for a raise can be nerve wracking. But there are some things you can do to make the process smoother and increase the chance of success. Here are some tips on asking for a raise by email.

• Research market standards: Before you ask for a raise, research the industry standards for your position and location. This will help you make a more compelling argument and provide a basis for your request.

• Prepare your case: Take some time to reflect on your contributions to the company, including your accomplishments, responsibilities, and any additional value you bring to the organization. Use this information to build your case and justify your request for a pay raise.

• Choose the right timing: Timing is crucial when asking for a raise. It’s best to choose a time when your manager is not too busy or stressed, and when you have recently achieved a significant milestone or completed a successful project.

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• Be professional and respectful: Remember to be professional and respectful in your email. Avoid using negative language, and focus on your achievements and contributions to the company. Keep the conversation about business and try to leave your emotions out of the negotiation. 

• Keep it concise: Keep your email short and to the point. Get straight to the point and clearly state why you believe you deserve a raise.

• Be open to negotiation: Be open to negotiation and willing to listen to your manager’s feedback. If your manager cannot meet your salary request, be prepared to discuss alternative compensation options, such as a bonus or added benefits like more vacation time or flexible work.

• Follow up: After sending your email, follow up with your manager to ensure that they received it and discuss your request in person or via a video call. This will demonstrate your commitment and show that you are serious about your request.

With the right approach, you can make a compelling case for a salary increase. Remember to be professional, respectful, and concise, and be open to negotiation when going through this process. You might even be pleasantly surprised at the answer from your employer. 

Is it Appropriate to Ask for a Raise by Email?

Is it wrong to ask for a raise?

Yes, it is appropriate to ask for a raise by email, but it depends on the company’s culture and communication practices. In some organizations, email is an acceptable and preferred method for discussing salary-related matters, while in others, face-to-face conversations may be preferred. In most cases, an email will be the beginning of the salary negotiation process. You will likely have in-person meetings with your boss or a Human Resources person. 

When asking for a raise by email, it’s essential to ensure that your message is clear, concise, and professional. Take the time to research your market value and prepare a persuasive case for why you deserve a raise. Be sure to choose the right timing and be respectful and open to negotiation.

It’s also important to follow up with your manager after sending the email to ensure that they received it and are considering your request. Ultimately, the appropriateness of asking for a raise by email depends on your company’s communication norms and your manager’s preferences. If you’re unsure, it’s always best to ask if they would prefer an in-person conversation.

Keep in mind that your manager may not have the ability to get you a raise without running it up the chain of command. Many companies only evaluate compensation once a year and you may be asked to wait until the appropriate time to discuss salary. With that being said, it doesn’t hurt to ask. If you are a strong contributor to the team, many employers won’t want to lose your talents for a few thousand dollars in annual pay.